Just one week after Hanover High School’s principal announced he would move on to another position within the district, the school department has appointed a new principal.

Supt. Matthew Ferron announced Wednesday, June 18 that district Humanities Director Matthew Paquette would succeed Dr. Thomas Raab to take over the post.

Paquette served for four years as the humanities director, according to an email Ferron sent to the Mariner.

“Mr. Paquette has offered Hanover High School and our district exceptional educational and cultural leadership for the past four years,” Ferron said. “This appointment is another significant step forward toward our vision of opportunity and excellence for all students and members of the [Hanover Public School] community.”

Paquette will take over high school operations on July 1, when Raab officially vacates the office for his new position as the school district’s business manager. Raab served as the school’s principal for six years.

“I realize this decision comes not long after the appointment of Dr. Thomas Raab to the position of Business Manager,” Ferron said. “In this case, we had the very good fortune of having outstanding internal candidates, and I sincerely believe that Mr. Paquette is the right person, right now, for Hanover High School.”

Ferron said he expected no gaps in services and hoped for a smooth transition for both positions since he was able to find internal candidates.

Over the summer, Ferron said the school department would plan opportunities for the community to meet Paquette.